**The big picture:** Phenom and Opportunity@Work have partnered to help state agencies implement skills-based hiring, moving beyond traditional degree requirements to fill critical public sector roles. This collaboration leverages AI and workforce data to operationalize skills-first policies.O**Why it matters:** This initiative addresses significant talent gaps in government, broadens career pathways for Skilled Through Alternative Routes (STARs), and offers a scalable model for public sector workforce transformation.O**Between the lines:** - Many states are eliminating degree requirements to expand their talent pools. - The partnership combines Opportunity@Work's data on STARs with Phenom's AI for sourcing and screening. - Louisiana saw a 14% increase in STAR hires and reduced attrition after adopting a skills-based approach.O**Staffing & HR impact:** This streamlines public sector recruitment, expands the available talent pool for agencies, and provides tools to ensure compliance while adopting new hiring practices. Recruiters gain better-qualified candidates and more efficient workflows.O**The bottom line:** AI-driven skills-based hiring is becoming a practical, measurable strategy for governments to attract and retain talent.